What We’re Reading: Respiratory Virus Travel Testing; Ketamine for Hard-to-Treat Pain; ACA Enrollment for 2023

CDC Expands Traveler-Based Surveillance Program to Include Respiratory Virus Testing

The CDC is set to enhance its traveler-based surveillance program by adding respiratory virus testing, according to Reuters. The expansion will begin at 4 major US airports, with a focus on the upcoming fall and winter seasons, known for the increased circulation of respiratory diseases like influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This proactive approach is driven by the CDC's warning of similar or higher hospitalization rates for COVID-19, RSV infections, and flu compared with the previous year, even exceeding prepandemic levels. The collaboration will closely monitor over 30 pathogens through voluntary nasal swabbing and airport wastewater sampling as part of a public-private partnership.

Ketamine's Rise as a Treatment for Hard-to-Treat Pain Sparks Concerns

As opioid painkiller prescriptions decline in the United States, ketamine is emerging as a new option for managing hard-to-treat pain and mental health conditions, according to the Associated Press. The surge in ketamine prescriptions, driven by for-profit clinics and telehealth services, is raising concerns due to limited research on its effectiveness and potential safety and abuse risks. While some patients report positive outcomes, others experience adverse effects, including hallucinations and disturbing thoughts, highlighting the need for further study and oversight of ketamine prescribing, experts say.

What You Need to Know About This Year's ACA Enrollment

The open enrollment period for health insurance plans through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace is underway, offering new features and potential benefits for prospective customers, according to The Hill. The enrollment period runs until January 15, with an important deadline of December 15 for coverage beginning on January 1. Factors such as increased subsidies, ongoing disenrollment from Medicaid, extended document submission timelines, and an automatic reenrollment policy are expected to influence this year's enrollment numbers. Additionally, stronger insurer participation is increasing the options available to consumers, but it may also present challenges in terms of choice complexity. The ACA Navigator program is available to assist consumers in navigating the more crowded marketplace, with increased investments by the Biden administration to support these efforts.